Inspired by his daughter learning piano with us, Chris, 54, began guitar lessons with Alejo and Isaac. He started playing when he was 20, but only decided to get serious about lessons in the last year.
“I'm always in awe when I see people play guitar,” Chris said. “Over the years, I've just developed an appreciation for music that I didn't have as much as a younger person.”
Learning to play music is a good mental exercise, he said, it’s fun, and it draws people together. His musical heroes include Buck Owens, Eugene Edwards, and The Mavericks.
“My goal is to be accomplished enough where I can just join in with the people who are playing,” Chris said. “That's really my main goal. To be able to participate with other musicians.”
With Alejo, Chris is exploring jazz, including exercises with drum sticks so he can feel the rhythm. He credits his teachers here at HAA for challenging him and for the quality of their instruction. He drives from Harmony Township for lessons.
“I’ve been really pleased with my teachers,” he said. “My mind is open to try anything.”